SAFA- Gaza’s Interior Ministry on Thursday condemned the killing of Gaza City Police Chief Col. Jamal Abu Kmeil in an Israeli airstrike targeting his vehicle on Al-Rashid Street in Gaza City. Two of his escorts were also injured.

In a statement, the ministry described the killing as a “dangerous escalation” and said it reflects Israel’s continued targeting of police institutions in the Gaza Strip, warning that such attacks threaten to create chaos within Palestinian society.

It said the strike occurred amid continued Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement and efforts by mediators to preserve the deal, adding that targeting the Gaza City police chief undermines mediation efforts and attempts to maintain calm.

The ministry called the killing a “blatant violation of international law,” stressing that the police are a civilian institution responsible for protecting the community and maintaining public security.

It noted that Abu Kmeil was killed less than three weeks after the police chief of North Gaza Governorate was killed. The ministry also cited the killing of the head of the Jabalia refugee camp police station, along with six officers and personnel.

The ministry urged the international community and countries mediating the ceasefire agreement to intervene urgently to stop Israeli violations and prevent further targeting of police officers and personnel.

It warned that continued attacks could deepen instability across the Gaza Strip, calling on international parties to uphold their responsibilities, protect civilian institutions, and prevent further escalation.